Krakow Mayor Ousted in Referendum After Less Than a Year

Krakow Mayor Aleksander Miszalski of the Civic Coalition has been removed from office after residents voted against him in a referendum.

A total of 171,581 people voted for his dismissal, while 3,631 voted against. Turnout reached nearly 30%, exceeding the threshold required for the result to be valid.

Miszalski had led Poland’s second-largest city since May 2024, ending the 22-year tenure of former mayor Jacek Majchrowski. He entered office promising gradual reform, greater dialogue with residents and progress on transport projects, including plans for a metro system. After taking office, he reorganized city administration and introduced the role of a night mayor.

However, he increasingly faced criticism from opposition groups and parts of the public. Controversial measures included the introduction of a low-emission zone, higher public transport fares, an expansion of paid parking areas and rising municipal debt. Some of his social media appearances also drew criticism.

In February, Miszalski announced a “major correction” to ease environmental zone rules and reduce certain fees. Shortly before the referendum, he acknowledged mistakes in the implementation of traffic policies.

Following the announcement of the result, he said he respected the decision of Krakow residents.

(pap, bak)